By Wendy Rose Gould, eHow Contributor
A DIY hot-oil treatment for your hair is simple, affordable and it works. "Giving hair a little attention and massaging your scalp really makes a difference in its texture and strength," explains Mimi Kirk, author of "Live Raw: Raw Food Recipes for Good Health and Timeless Beauty." Kirk, in her 70s, explains that using natural oils in her hair keeps soft and healthy-looking.
Pour some pure oil in a small bowl or cup. Top picks include extra virgin olive oil, virgin coconut oil and avocado oil. Coconut oil comes in solid form, but liquefies when warmed. The amount of oil depends on the length and thickness of your hair.
Kirk suggests using your finger to test. "Oil doesn't have to be hot to work," she said. "I place some of the oil in a bowl set over water, just like I'm cooking with a double boiler." Or use a microwave for a few seconds but test frequently.
Wash, Comb and Style
A DIY hot-oil treatment for your hair is simple, affordable and it works. "Giving hair a little attention and massaging your scalp really makes a difference in its texture and strength," explains Mimi Kirk, author of "Live Raw: Raw Food Recipes for Good Health and Timeless Beauty." Kirk, in her 70s, explains that using natural oils in her hair keeps soft and healthy-looking.
This hair treatment requires an oil such as extra virgin olive oil. You'll also need a small bowl for the oil as well as a comb, a shower cap and an hour to relax.
Select and Pour Oil
Pour some pure oil in a small bowl or cup. Top picks include extra virgin olive oil, virgin coconut oil and avocado oil. Coconut oil comes in solid form, but liquefies when warmed. The amount of oil depends on the length and thickness of your hair.Warm the Oil
Kirk suggests using your finger to test. "Oil doesn't have to be hot to work," she said. "I place some of the oil in a bowl set over water, just like I'm cooking with a double boiler." Or use a microwave for a few seconds but test frequently.
Tip: The oil should never bubble or steam. Bring it to body temperature.
Apply Oil to Hair
Pour a small amount of oil into the palm of your hand and massage it into your scalp. Continue adding oil until all your hair is liberally coated. If you're worried about a mess, do this in the bath or while standing over the sink.
Tip: A cozy bath is a pleasant option.
Comb Through
Using your fingers, a comb or both, be sure the oil is evenly distributed throughout your hair. The ends tend to be drier than the hair around your scalp, so pay attention to that section of the hair shaft.
Place Hair in Cap
Place your hair into a snug shower cap. Covering your hair creates a warm environment that makes hair more porous, allowing the oil to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively.
Wait and Massage Intermittently
Allow the hot oil treatment to set for about an hour, massaging the scalp once or twice every half hour. "I don't find that leaving it on any longer than an hour makes a difference," Kirk said.
Tip: Take advantage and use this time to relax.
After an hour, shampoo the oil out of your hair. If necessary, double shampoo to remove all traces of oil. After washing, comb your hair to remove any tangles. Style as usual.
Tip: Repeat a hot oil treatment every month or two for best results.
